My two year old daughter Peyton is the smartest kid I’ve ever known. No, I’m not just saying that because I’m her father, but she literally knows more than most kids her age, according to her teachers, and is so intuitive that it baffles me at times.

Brrrr! Man, winter is upon us and it has been cold outside. When it’s cold outside, there’s nothing like being inside where it’s warm and relaxing with the perfect cold weather spirit. And that’s where my favorite brown liquor comes into focus. That’s right, cognac. Not only perfect for the BBQ or Sunday fish fry but when done right and with the right offering, cognac can enhance those chilly nights by the fireplace. Let’s discuss.

The cocktail is back. The delicate balance of spirits and builders has rejuvenated all around us. Complex libations crafted by your favorite bartender have resurged. We aren't reliving the simple one-two punches: the rum and cokes or the vodka sodas which previously solidified their places in American bars and restaurants. Instead, the rebirth of classic cocktails is enjoying its intricate position atop the patron’s “most-wanted" list.

Where to begin? Well, it starts back to the days of watching my father order up drinks on family outings. Beer and a side car of vodka. I knew he enjoyed beer but I never knew why he asked for the shot of clear liquid. There was just something about seeing it in the small glass that intrigued me.

Now before I get started, let me say this…if your only memories or experiences with tequila involved a guy named Jose Cuervo while on spring break in Mexico or shots in some nondescript back alley bar, you should read this. And then revisit tequila and some of your choices in life.

There comes a time in your life when you start to realize that a change is going to come and there are better versions of things you are currently doing. For me, that time and opportunity came back in July 2004.

I hope you are having a wonderful start to your day. Its’ been raining here in Charlotte the last few days but the sun is supposed to come out a bit later. Today’s object lesson comes from a phenomenon that I witness (and I am quite sure you see it as well) from time to time as I am driving. It starts off with a person behind you in traffic.

As someone who at one time worked in the insurance industry for well over 10 years, I’ve been approached by a lot of friends, family, and associates over the years to assist them with their insurance needs and/or give advice. I’ve been able to help lots of people with having suitable protection during some of the most difficult times in their lives.

Hola! I hope that your day is starting off on the right note. As always, I thank you for taking the time out to read these posts and I hope that they are helping in some capacity with your day-to-day or nonprofit/business start-up.